Wednesday’s contribution kicked up the trend of daily giving, with $12,370 for the day alone. That brings the total to $111,650 from 51 givers.“It’s really the highlight of the holidays to sit back and watch the generosity of our community revealed,” Nelson Clyde, publisher of the Tyler Morning Telegraph, said on Friday. “It’s been the gift that keeps on giving for my heart every year to watch this unfold.”(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Contributions total almost $5,000

12/19/2012

The Shine Your Light campaign brought in $4,630 since it began on Sunday, bringing the total with the matching funds to $9,260."I'm really excited about the challenge goal this year, $250,000," Mayor Barbara Bass said in an interview Friday. "I'm also excited about the selection of nonprofits this year. We have some that haven't been in the campaign before. Shine Your Light has been a tremendous success and helped to refill the coffers of nonprofits that help so many during the holiday season. They need to be replenished for the New Year."(Read more from Tyler Paper)

It’s your chance to ‘Shine Your Light’

12/19/2012

East Texans continue to display their generosity, and the Tyler Paper is privileged to be a part of it again, with the annual year-end Shine Your Light campaign.The campaign will last through Dec. 31. Donations can be made online or by mail.This year, the proceeds will be split between a record-breaking nine agencies: The East Texas Food Bank, the Bethesda Clinic, The Hospice of East Texas, the Alzheimer’s Alliance, People Attempting to Help (PATH), the East Texas Crisis Center, The Salvation Army, the Samaritan Counseling Center and Meals On Wheels.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Shine Your Light: East Texas Food Bank changing lives

12/16/2012

During the holiday season, especially in a poor economy, many of us put extra time into helping those who need it most.With holiday giving in mind, the our news partners the Tyler Morning Telegraph launches it's second annual Shine Your Light campaign, urging the community to donate to nine chosen East Texas non profits.The East Texas Food Bank is one of those non profits, and the organization is changing lives.(Read more from KYTX CBS 19)

Food Bank's programs provide for families

12/16/2012

Shaunelis Sterns has been dismayed by how fast her children are growing.“They're my babies,” she said.Two of her four children are grown and on their own. And having enough food for her two youngest — Nehemiah, 11, and Yasmine, 9 — while paying monthly bills can be a challenge, said Mrs. Sterns, 38.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Annual Shine Your Light fundraising campaign sets a goal of $250,000

12/16/2012

The fifth annual holiday fundraising campaign, Shine Your Light, is back with a $250,000 goal.Shine Your Light is an annual end-of-year giving campaign in which East Texas residents can donate to selected nonprofits through the East Texas Communities Foundation. The campaign kicks off today and ends Dec. 31.This year, the proceeds will be split between a record-breaking nine agencies: The East Texas Food Bank, the Bethesda Clinic, The Hospice of East Texas, the Alzheimer’s Alliance, People Attempting to Help (PATH), the East Texas Crisis Center, The Salvation Army, the Samaritan Counseling Center and Meals On Wheels.

Campaign reflects city’s giving spirit

12/16/2012

Newspapers have been holding holiday-season campaigns for decades, with some surpassing a century of fundraising for worthy causes.My previous employer, the Beaumont Enterprise, has held its Empty Stocking drive since 1914, for example. The Houston Chronicle’s annual Goodfellows campaign, which provides toys for needy children, celebrated its 100th anniversary last year.The Tyler Morning Telegraph’s annual Shine Your Light campaign is in its infancy by comparison, born in 2008, but it hasn’t taken a century for this cause to have a decisive community impact in a way that only Tylerites can make possible.

Agency hands out 15 million meals throughout East Texas

12/16/2012

In its more than 20 years, the East Texas Food Bank has provided millions of meals for hungry residents in the more than 20,000 square miles it covers in 26 counties. In 2011, 15 million meals were distributed.According to the organization’s website, “One in four children, one in five adults and one in seven seniors in East Texas are ‘at-risk of hunger.’”

East Texas Food Bank receives $3,300 donation

12/12/2012

The East Texas Food Bank received a $3,300 donation from the Tyler Altra Federal Credit Union on Wednesday.The Altra Federal Credit Union took part in the national Drive Away Hunger campaign, in which they donate ten dollars for every car, truck and motorcycle loan they give. Nationally, the company raised over $16,000 for local charities and food banks.(Read more from KLTV 7)

Altra Drive Away Hunger

12/9/2012

Altra Federal Credit Union raised more than $16,000 nationally with its Drive Away Hunger Campaign. Altra donated $10 for every car, truck and motorcycle loan financed from Sept. 1 through Oct. 31. Members who matched Altra's $10 donation received a rate discount.(Read more from Tyler Paper and Press Release)

Volunteer View: Day 6 - East Texas Food Bank

12/7/2012

I wanted to volunteer somewhere local during my adventure in generous giving. Today I gave my time as a volunteer at East Texas Food Bank. While ordinarily they would be sorting food, I ended up sweeping out the cold storage freezer section.(Read more from The Wandering Worshiper)

After 50 years, chapter honors founding members, celebrates past

12/6/2012

The East Texas chapter of the Links, Inc. will host its Golden Anniversary Celebration with a black-tie dinner dance Saturday, Dec. 8 at the Villa di Felicita in Tyler.The East Texas Food Bank will receive the award for National Trends and Services. This organization has a long history of its attack on hunger and encouraging healthy diets in the fight against obesity.(Read more from Marshall News Messenger)

Steve Harvey donates 100 turkeys to East Texas Food Bank

11/21/2012

A big thanks to our morning man, Steve Harvey, and his wife Marjorie for donating 100 frozen turkeys to help the less fortunate this Thanksgiving! HOT 107.3 Jamz donated the turkeys to the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from Hot 107.3 Jamz)

Local non-profit benefits from ETX musician's song

11/20/2012

A musician who now calls East Texas home, has teamed up with a local non-profit to fight homelessness, something he has experience first-hand. Martin Caine moved from England to East Texas three years ago."I'm home now. I love it, I absolutely love it. Lovely weather, lovely people; it's just a great place to be," Caine said.Caine, who has written and recorded several songs, said he grew up around music.(Read more from KLTV 7)

Children treated to foods from annual TV classis

11/18/2012

A lesson in sharing with those less fortunate at Thanksgiving came across to youngsters sitting on hay bales as they watched a classic animated cartoon and ate what many kids love — pretzels, jelly beans, popcorn and ice cream.The menu for the third annual “Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Feast” at East Texas Food Bank on Saturday had none of the turkey, dressing and trimmings of a traditional Thanksgiving.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Wiley College students head up food drive

11/17/2012

When Michael Champion asked students in his criminal justice class if any of them would be interested in helping with Wiley College’s annual fall food drive, the professor got more than he anticipated.Two students, junior criminal justice majors Roshondra Wilson and Amy Charles, decided Wiley’s normal food drive wouldn’t cut it anymore.“I told them what I wanted initially, and they said ‘you’re thinking too small,’” Champion said. “This is something we’ve done on a number of occasions before, but on a smaller scale.”(Read more from Longview News-Journal)

A Charlie Brown feast benefits East Texas Food Bank

11/14/2012

Thanksgiving is full of traditions. One that I observe every year is watching the 1973 classic cartoon, “Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” It illustrates a lesson that Thanksgiving is not just about eating, it’s about getting together, being thankful for one another and celebrating the blessings of the year.As a child, the lesson may not be apparent. Children are probably more interested in the idea of popcorn, toast, pretzels, ice cream and jelly beans as a possible Thanksgiving meal — all served by a dog in a chef’s hat. Now that’s my kind of chef.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Panola College SGA to conduct food drive

11/13/2012

The Student Government Association (SGA) of Panola College will participate in the Fill the Bus food drive. The donated food will be taken to the East Texas Food Banks and other food banks.On Thursday, November 15, members of the SGA will walk door-to-door through Carthage Texas, asking for canned goods. The activity is planned for 5 pm. For additional information about this event, please call 903-693-2043.(Read more from Panola Watchman)

Area Boy Scouts Food Drive arrives

11/8/2012

The East Texas Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, is preparing for its annual Scouting for Food drive the week of Nov. 10 - Nov. 17. The food drive will span the 17 East Texas counties that make up the East Texas Area Council.Scouting for Food, conducted each fall, not only addresses a community need but also teaches Scouts about the importance of compassion toward others and about service learning.(Read more from Longview News-Journal)

Holiday food drives strive to help those in need

11/8/2012

As the holiday season approaches, groups and organizations are stepping up efforts to help feed those in need with special food collections intended to stock the shelves at local food pantries and programs.(Read more from Daily Progress)

Boy Scouts food drive begins next week

11/7/2012

The Boy Scouts of America is preparing for its annual Scouting for Food drive the week of Nov. 10 - 17 and it will span 17 counties, including Wood.On Saturday, Nov. 10 thousands of Scouts will fan out across East Texas to distribute collection bags to the majority of households. Scouts will return the following Saturday, Nov. 17, to collect filled bags and take them to central collection points.(Read more from Mineola Monitor)

Scouts to conduct Scouting for Food drive

11/7/2012

Continuing an important service, the East Texas Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, is preparing for its annual Scouting for Food drive the week of Nov. 10 - Nov. 17. The food drive will span the 17 East Texas counties that make up the East Texas Area Council.Scouting for Food, conducted each fall, not only addresses a community need but also teaches Scouts about the importance of compassion toward others and about service learning.(Read more from Panola Watchman)

Got Milk?

11/5/2012

What goes better with cookies than milk? Soon there will be a very, very large cookie in downtown Grand Saline!The Grand Saline Main Street Program will present the third annual Great American Peanut Butter Festival on Saturday, November 10 with plans to make the world’s largest peanut butter cookie.(Read more from Grand Saline Sun)

Regional weight-loss contest draws thousands

11/4/2012

Barbara Goodknight, of Tyler, rolled out of bed bright and early Saturday with a gleam in her eye and a bounce in her step. At first glance, it was evident she was a woman on a mission.“I want to lose some weight,” she declared.Ms. Goodknight was among an estimated 2,000 East Texans who stepped up to the scales Saturday at Bergfeld Park to start a new chapter in their lives, one of improved fitness and healthy living.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Scouts to conduct annual Scouting for Food drive

11/2/2012

The East Texas Area Council of Boy Scouts of America is preparing for its annual Scouting for Food drive the week of Nov. 10-17. The food drive will span the 17 East Texas counties that make up the East Texas Area Council.Scouting for Food, conducted each fall, not only addresses a community need but also teaches Scouts about the importance of compassion toward others and about service learning.(Read more from Palestine Herald Press)

ETMC Olympic Center food drive benefits East Texas Food Bank

11/1/2012

To help fight hunger in East Texas this holiday season, the East Texas Medical Center Olympic Center is partnering with the East Texas Food Bank for a canned food drive Nov. 1-30.(Read more from ETMC)

Mineola Metric Century preparations underway

10/23/2012

Organizers are working hard on the Mineola Metric Century Bicycle Rally that will be Saturday, Nov. 3 starting at the Mineola Civic Center. Registration is underway online at mineolachamber.org or active.com or by calling 903-569-2087.Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the East Texas Food Bank and APET SPCA.

Business joins nonprofit to expand TISD food program

10/12/2012

A donation from Tyler business owners is helping the East Texas Food Bank to expand a child nutrition program for Tyler ISD students. But now the donors are asking the community at large to do its part.Mentoring Minds, a Tyler-based business, has pledged $150,000 in matching funds for the food bank's TISD BackPack Program.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

BackPack Program gets big donation from Tyler business

10/11/2012

The BackPack Program, which is a program through the East Texas Food Bank, has expanded to all 18 Tyler Elementary schools. This year, more than 13 hundred children will receive a backpack filled with food. The East Texas Food Bank has a five year plan, at a cost of one million dollars, to reach more hungry children throughout the school district. today...they got a big donation to make that happen. (Read more from KYTX CBS 19)

East Texas Food Bank reaching out to Tyler ISD students

10/11/2012

The East Texas Food Bank is reaching out to Tyler ISD students. They are expanding their BackPack Program to all 18 elementary schools in Tyler ISD, something the food bank says is important to students' health and success.

"Your physical health is the foundation to be able to learn, to achieve what you need to achieve in school, to become contributors to our society and to build a stronger community," says Dennis Cullinane, Executive Director of the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from KLTV 7)

$300,000 donation to BackPack Program

10/11/2012

A gift from Mentoring Minds will go a long way to help the East Texas Food Bank with a million dollar goal. The donation is earmarked to expand the BackPack Program in all 18 Tyler ISD schools.(KETK NBC 56)

$300,000 gift from Mentoring Minds will help reach $1 million goal

10/11/2012

The East Texas Food Bank is expanding the BackPack Program to all 18 elementary schools in Tyler ISD this year and will serve more than 1,300 children. The expansion of the program is part of the East Texas Food Bank’s five-year plan to reach hungry children throughout Tyler ISD. The total projected cost of the five-year expansion is approximately $1 million. Last school year, the East Texas Food Bank distributed backpacks to approximately 1,000 children in Tyler, and looks forward to serving even more children this year.

Mentoring Minds has made an initial gift of $150,000 and today as part of their ongoing commitment to children in East Texas they are announcing an additional $150,000 pledge to help the East Texas Food Bank reach their goal. Any donations made by the community for the BackPack Program in Tyler ISD will be matched dollar-for-dollar by Mentoring Minds up to $150,000.(Read more about the gift)

East Texas Food bank will announce expansion of weekend food program

10/11/2012

More children in Tyler ISD will be provided food over the weekend through a local nonprofit program.

The East Texas Food Bank is scheduled to announce today that it will expand its BackPack Program to all 18 TISD elementary schools this year and serve more than 1,300 children, according to a school district news release.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Donation to East Texas Food Bank will support BackPack Program

10/11/2012

The East Texas Food Bank is expanding the BackPack Program to all 18 elementary schools in Tyler ISD this year and will serve more than 1,300 children.

The expansion of the program is part of the East Texas Food Bank’s five-year plan to reach hungry children throughout Tyler ISD. The total projected cost of the five-year expansion is approximately $1 million.(Read more from Your East Texas)

East Texas Food Bank car show in Tyler

10/6/2012

Despite the clouds and the cool air, car guys like Bryan Walding brought their pride and joys to Christian Brothers Automotive on Broadway in Tyler to help the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from KETK NBC 56)

Opened in 1987, the goal of Helping Hands was to aid churches in coming together and helping those in need. Now, Helping Hands of Kilgore is a local non-profit organization that provides food and supplies to local families in need.(Read more from Kilgore News-Herald)

Palestine Firefighter's Association to present Fright Night

10/1/2012

The Palestine Firefighter’s Association is proud to present Fright Night on October 19, 20, 26, 27, and 31, from 7 p.m. – midnight. Fright Night is located at 3600 West Oak Street. This year’s event includes twenty-two scary scenes located in 1,688 frightening feet of space. Admission is $10 per person, or $5 with two canned goods. All canned goods go to the East Texas Food Bank to meet local need.(Read more from Your East Texas

Men's Basketball serves at East Texas Food Bank

9/26/2012

The UT Tyler men's basketball team spent a day at the East Texas Food Bank on Saturday, spending valuable time with an important organization that helps feed thousands of families across the East Texas area.The team spent time sorting over 7,600 pounds of food, which equates to almost 6,000 meals that will help those in need.(Read more from UTTylerPatriots.com)

Peanut butter lovers being cautious after company recalls products

9/25/2012

A peanut butter maker is pulling nearly 80 products from store shelves. Sunland Inc. is taking the action after one product in particular was linked to salmonella. It's Trader Joe's Creamy Valencia Peanut Butter, made between May 1st and September 24th.(Read more from KYTX CBS19)

Upshur County food pantry sets record in August

9/24/2012

For the second month in a row, the Upshur County Shares Food Pantry had a record number of clients, said Mel Small, who helps organize and coordinate the pantry. “In August, we helped 559 families who came in for food,” he said. “This was a total of 1,469 people we helped.”(Read more from The Gilmer Mirror)

Samsung donates $8,000 to continue commitment to community

9/24/2012

To celebrate Hunger Action Month, Samsung donated $8,000 in technology euipment to the East Texas Food Bank as part of its ongoing philanthropic commitment to the East Texas community. Samsung donated 3,000 boxes for rural food distribution and 10 Samsung Galaxt Tab 10.1 devices for more mobility in promoting East Texas Food Bank services across their 26-county region.(Read more here)

'Cause everyone needs a little help every once in a while"

9/20/2012

One in four children in East Texas are at risk of going hungry in East Texas. The East Texas Food Bank is working to make sure no family goes hungry by kicking off their annual Hunger Action Month, bringing awareness to food needs in East Texas. Barbara Herrera is one of the many people who benefit from the Hunger Action Month campaign put on by the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from KLTV 7)

Bridal event to benefit East Texas Food Bank

9/18/2012

The Shoemaker Hill Ranch in Jacksonville will hold “Moonlight, Merlot & More” on Saturday to benefit the East Texas Food Bank. The event, which will run 6:30-11 p.m., is being billed as “the ultimate high end bridal experience for today's information overloaded brides and couples,” a news release states.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Federal cuts could affect food assistance for low-income East Texans

9/16/2012

A vote by Congress to put government on budget autopilot for six months would postpone a showdown brewing over the 2012 Farm Bill — and whether to slash billions of dollars from the nation’s programs to feed low-income families. One of those programs provides nutrition for thousands of East Texans.(Read more from Longview News-Journal)

As the first half of the football game ended Friday night, Robert E. Lee and John Tyler fans were no longer focused on the game but the results of the 22nd annual Pantry Raid food drive. Representatives from both schools gathered on the field, and John Tyler fans erupted in screams and applause as they were announced the winner.

“We knew it would be close because both are competitive schools,” LeDana McGee, Student Senate sponsor at John Tyler, said. “It was overwhelming (to win), but just a good feeling.”(Read more from Tyler Paper)

John Tyler Wins Annual 'Pantry Raid' food collection competition

9/14/2012

The winner of tonight's football match up between John Tyler and Robert E. Lee high schools may not be decided yet, but John Tyler did emerge as the winner of the 22nd annual pantry raid competition between the schools to benefit the East Texas Food Bank.

John Tyler and Robert E. Lee high schools collected a combined 53,516 pounds of food, which represents 44,600 meals.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Republican Women work toward November victory

9/13/2012

The Republican Women of Upshur County are actively working toward a Republican victory in November. The national election is so close to our primary run-off that there hasn’t been a real break in activity.The group, however, has planned periodic field trips to learn more about what the community and the area offers in the way of services, recreation and business.(Read more from The Gladewater Mirror)

High schools competing to feed the hungry

9/12/2012

Local high schools are participating in a great cause to help the East Texas Community.The East Texas Food Bank's "Pantry Raid"...one of the largest food drives of the year, and it has kicked off. It's the 22nd annual food drive.Robert E. Lee High School and John Tyler High School are competing to feed the hungry in East Texas. Since the first week of school, the two high schools have been collecting food and funds for people in need. The community can drop off food and money at any of the two high schools or East Texas Food Bank to help families.(Read more from KETK NBC 56)

The cross town rivalry is in full swing this week as John Tyler and Robert E. Lee high schools prepare to face off on the football field Friday.But competition aside, these two schools joined together for the eighth annual sportsmanship breakfast on Tuesday.It is one of a couple activities the students will participate in leading up to the game.The other is the Pantry Raid, an event designed to raise money and food donations for the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more at Tyler Paper)

Pantry Raid: high school students compete to feed the hungry

9/6/2012

The 22nd annual Pantry Raid competition between Robert E. Lee and John Tyler High School students has kicked off. The students at both high schools have a friendly competition to help feed hungry East Texans. The food and funds the students collect will benefit hungry East Texans through the East Texas Food Bank’s partner agencies. The school that collects the most amount of food will earn bragging rights and proudly display the traveling trophy at their school for the year.(Read more from KLTV.com)

Hunger Action Month kicks into high gear

9/6/2012

The East Texas Food Bank kicked off its annual Hunger Action Month this week. It's a month long campaign with Feeding America and food banks across the nation to raise awareness about hunger.The East Texas Food Bank will partner with various organizations to raise the food and financial donations needed as they move into their busiest season.On Thursday, the Brookshire Grocery Company made a significant contribution by donating an entire truckload of food to the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from KLTV 7)

The cupboard is getting bare

9/1/2012

The loss of jobs, low wages and a struggling economy have impacted the residents of East Texas. The results of this three pronged attack have caused many to seek outside assistance for the very basic necessities like….food. Fortunately, there are places that people can turn to like S.H.A.R.E., the Loaves and Fishes program through St. Francis of the Tejas, Harvest Church Crockett, Palestine Community Food Pantry, First Resource Center in Palestine, St. Vincent de Paul - Palestine and the East Texas Food Bank in Tyler. (Read more from Messenger)

Nonprofit groups receive $30,000 in grant funding

8/30/2012

Representatives of nonprofits in Smith County gathered Wednesday to receive the annual Community Builders Grant from the East Texas Communities Foundation and United Way of Smith County. The combined total of funds awarded this year was more than $30,000. The recipients chosen this year were the American Cancer Society, Bethesda Health Clinic, Cancer Foundation for Life, East Texas Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity of Smith County, Kings Storehouse, Literacy Council of Tyler, Meals on Wheels, PATH, Pine Cove and St. Paul Children's Foundation.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Red Cross trains volunteers for emergency calls

8/30/2012

East Texas Food Bank spokeswoman Karolyn Davis said pallets of emergency food and supplies from Feeding America, which provides food for food banks and organizations such as the Red Cross, arrived and were staged in case they were needed.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Hunters and a local store are doing a good deed in East Texas

8/28/2012

There is a state-wide program "Hunters for the Hungry" that provides protein and a meal for people and families in need.Joe Lynch, store owner of Lynch's Meat Mart, works with with East Texas hunters. He invited KETK into his kitchen and tells us about the process receiving game from the hunters.(Read more from KETK NBC56)

UT Men's Soccer volunteers at East Texas Food Bank

8/27/2012

The University of Texas at Tyler's men's soccer team spent some valuable time at the East Texas Food Bank in Tyler on Saturday, taking time out of their busy schedule to give back to the community.The Patriots spent time packing boxes of food that would be delivered to senior citizens across the area.(Read more from UT Patriots Athletics)

Holly lake Women's Service Guild fall kick-off

8/21/2012

All women of Holly Lake and the surrounding area are invited to attend the Women’s Service Guild’s fall kick-off meeting Thursday, September 6th at 10:00 a.m.The program will be a fantastic star-spangled celebration of the Guild’s 35th anniversary. In 2012 the Guild donated over $13,000 to such charities as the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center, East Texas Food Bank, Hawkins Helping Hand, Meals on Wheels and the East Texas Crisis Center to name a few. Some of the fund raising activities for these benevolences include the publishing and sale of the Holly Lake Ranch Area directory and the Fall Festival.

Scholarship, nonprofit grant recipients announced

8/10/2012

The East Texas Communities Foundation announced the recipients of the 2012 grants through the Edwin A. “Blue” and Janice Owen Miller Charitable Fund, totaling $108,000. The East Texas Food Bank is a recipient, with funds being directed toward the Senior Servings program.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Area pantries brace for high food prices

7/29/2012

One of the worst droughts in U.S. history has pushed rising food costs onto East Texas Food Bank’s radar, and it could lead to difficult times for local food pantries. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports about 60 percent of the country is suffering under drought conditions, and more than 20 percent of the nation is experiencing extreme or exceptional drought conditions — the two worst stages of drought — and more than half of that area will be experiencing these conditions for at least six more months.(Read more from Longview News-Journal)

Local organization helps feed children

7/23/2012

In the summer season, kids being out of school usually means vacation time, summer camps and family fun, but for lower income families it brings a whole new worry because the free or reduced meals provided by a school cafeteria are no longer available.

The East Texas Food Bank is partnering with local organizations to try and ease that burden on families and provide kids with free lunches.(Read more from KLTV 7)

Program provides food, faith lessons

7/14/2012

A number of local organizations have received meal services from East Texas Food Bank in the past month. The most recent addition to the Food Banks’ services is Faith Tabernacle of God in Christ’s community outreaches at Pentecost Park.“Instead of bringing them to the church, we come to the community,” said Summer Food Program site supervisor Dorris Baker.(Read more from Kilgore News Herald)

Summer Food Program providing well-balanced meals for children

6/27/2012

The East Texas Food Bank is making sure kids are receiving a well-balanced meal over their summer break. Its Summer Food Service Program serves children in low-income communities who participate in free and reduced feeding programs during the school year. Officials say since these programs end when school does, the program helps fill that hunger gap.(Read more from KTBS 3)

East Texas Food Bank helps kids in need

6/26/2012

East Texas children are receiving the opportunity to eat for free during the summer months. The East Texas Food Bank is providing food for students who received free or reduced meal during the school year.“East Texas Food Bank is hosting Summer Food Program sites all throughout East Texas,” said East Texas Food Bank Communications Director, Karolyn Davis. “We have nearly 60 sites in East Texas, so we’re covering a lot of ground.”(Read more from KMOO)

Summer nutrition programs fill students' stomachs, larger need

6/19/2012

The reasons kids look forward to summer are pretty simple -- no school, and no homework, for two months.

But for many children all over the state, being in school every day also means getting full meals in the school cafeteria -- and when they're home for the summer, that's more food that mom and dad have to provide.(Read more from KLTV 7)

Local food bank is finalist to win new car with community's support

6/14/2012

Next Tuesday, June 19, the East Texas Food Bank will go head-to-head with four other non-profits from across the country to win a new car, but they need your help to make it happen. CBS 19's Amanda Roberson explains why they're in the running for a new car and how it would help East Texans.With the community's support a new Toyota Prius Hybrid could be added to the fleet at the East Texas Food Bank. It's part of a new philanthropic program with Toyota called 100 Cars For Good.(Read more from KYTX CBS19)

East Texas Food Bank named finalist in Toyota’s ’100 Cars For Good’ Program

6/14/2012

The East Texas Food Bank announced today that is has been selected as one of 500 non profit finalists in Toyota's '100 Cars for Good' program.The automaker is giving 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 days. The East Texas Food Bank was selected as a finalist from more than 4,000 applications nationwide.(Read more from KETK NBC56)

East Texas Food Bank named finalist in Toyota’s ’100 Cars For Good’ Program

6/14/2012

The East Texas Food Bank is one of 500 nonprofit finalists in Toyota’s ‘100 Cars for Good‘ program. It’s a philanthropic initiative where Toyota is giving away 100 cars to 100 nonprofit organizations over the course of 100 days! The East Texas Food Bank was chosen as a finalist of more than 4,000 applications nationwide! In order to win the car, the East Texas Food bank needs your help – and vote!(Read more from 96X)

East Texas Food Bank tabbed as finalist in 'Cars' program

6/14/2012

East Texas Food Bank officials announced Wednesday that the organization has been selected as a finalist in Toyota's 100 Cars for Good program, the carmaker's philanthropic initiative to give 100 cars to 100 nonprofits in 100 days.

"Everyone at the East Texas Food Bank is thrilled to have been selected as a finalist for the 2012 100 Cars for Good program," said Dennis Cullinane, executive director at the East Texas Food Bank, in a written release. "We're grateful for this incredible opportunity to showcase the East Texas Food Bank's mission to reduce hunger by providing food, support and education to those in need with passion and efficiency."(Read more from Tyler Paper)

East Texas Food Bank named finalist in 100 Cars For Good Program

6/14/2012

The East Texas Food Bank announced Wednesday that it has been selected as one of 500 nonprofit finalists in Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program. That’s a major philanthropic initiative in which the automaker is giving 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 days. The East Texas Food Bank was selected as a finalist from more than 4,000 applications nationwide.(Read more from KTBB)

Women’s Fund Celebrates 5 Years At ‘Philanthropy Blooms’

6/14/2012

With assistance from the East Texas Communities Foundation and Fourth Partner, the steering committee researched funds across the country and hosted an initial membership recruitment event. The response was overwhelming, as 128 charter members of The Women’s Fund raised more than $150,000, the announcement said.

With a formal grant-making process in place, The Women’s Fund now annually provides high-impact grants to non-profit agencies and programs that benefit the needs of women and children.

In its first four years of grant distribution, The Women’s Fund has awarded more than $400,000 in grants to 12 initiatives through these Smith County organizations: Alzheimer’s Alliance, Azleway, Bethesda Health Clinic, CASA for Kids, Children’s Advocacy Center, East Texas Food Bank, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas, Parents Anonymous, Salvation Army, Tyler Day Nursery and the Tyler Independent School District Foundation.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Pint-sized food lovers and even the pickiest eaters will have a blast getting crafty with cuisine as Super Duper Mini Chefs makes its annual spring appearance at approximately 100 Simon® malls nationwide. Hosted by the popular Simon Kidgits Club® and sponsored by Nickelodeon, participating kids will actually be encouraged to play with their food!(Read more from KETK NBC56)

Gap remains wide in feeding hungry Gregg County youth

6/12/2012

Nearly one in five Gregg County youth are in danger of missing a meal each day. And that startling number from the not-for-profit organization Feeding America may be too low, according to a Longview youth worker.

“That’s not shocking at all,” said B’Ann Boiles, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Gregg County. “In fact, it seems low to me.”(Read more from Kilgore News-Journal)

Study: 1 in 4 area children face food insecurity

6/8/2012

Nearly one in four Harrison County children do not know when they will eat next, according to a recent study by Feeding America, a charity focused on relieving hunger.

Released earlier this week, the study finds that 27.1 percent of Texas children faced food insecurity in 2010, and 23.5 percent of Harrison County children were at risk of going hungry in the same year.(Read more from Marshall News Messenger)

Volunteers kick off East Texas Food Bank summer program

6/6/2012

Kyler Matthews and Nathan Henson, both 12, may be out of school for the summer, but they still are receiving a good education. The boys, both volunteers, spent Tuesday helping the East Texas Food Bank kick off its Summer Food Program, offered in conjunction with the city of Tyler's 62nd annual Summer Playground Program.

The joint project is designed to offer nutritious food, fun activities and positive role models for youngsters who need a little support during the school break.(Read more from Tyler Paper)

Free meals for summer

6/5/2012

With school out, the East Texas Food Bank wants to make sure kids are getting nutritious meals even if summer has started.On Tuesday, the Food Bank kicked off their summer food programs at city park in Tyler. They say since schools over, tons of East Texas kids are looking for a place to hang out with friends, have fun and eat healthy meals.(Read more from KLTV 7)

Summer program to feed kids starts locally

6/5/2012

Since school is out, many area children will be looking for places they can meet their friends, have fun and eat healthy meals.The East Texas Food Bank and Westwood Independent School District’s Food Service department have partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide children in the community with free nutritious meals through the Summer Food Program.(Read more from Palestine Herald)

Free summer lunch program kicks off in East Texas

6/5/2012

City Park in Tyler is one of 56 parks across East Texas that the East Texas Food Bank is using to make sure kids get fed a nutritious meal this summer. 170 lunches were passed out at the park Tuesday afternoon because when school's out so are the lunches so many kids depend on.(Read more from KYTX 19)

East Texas Food Bank kicks off Summer Food Program

6/5/2012

The East Texas Food Bank's Summer Food Program kicked off today at City Park in Tyler.The program provides nutritios meals free to all children ages 1 to 18 at 56 different sites across East Texas.The free meals help children in low income areas get the nutrition they need to learn and grow.(Read more for KETK 56)

Food bank's lunch plan starts today

6/5/2012

Diana Raiborn said she sometimes wonders if her family could make it without her local food pantry.The single mom of four boys, ages 4 to 17, was laid off in April. She gets $100 a month in food stamps, but the food pantry helps fill the gap. Each month, she sets up an appointment to pick up some boxes of food.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Fresh Steak Cookoff on Saturday

5/30/2012

It’s the time of year when FRESH by Brookshire’s adds Texas to its name and pays homage to food, music and people that make the Lone Star state great.The Taste of Texas event begins Friday and runs through June 10. In addition to the sampling of Texas products and other activities planned throughout the two week celebration, the store will be hosting the 2nd Annual Steak Cookoff benefiting the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Organizations provide summer lunches for students

5/22/2012

As schools approach summer vacation, Jacksonville has four locations offering free meals to students through the Summer Food Program.Jacksonville ISD's Summer Food Program is sponsored through The Texas Department of Agriculture Summer Nutrition Program. JISD will provide breakfast and lunch.(Read more from Jacksonville Daily Progress)

Pine Tree to provide meals during summer

5/15/2012

During the school year, many children receive free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch through the School Breakfast and National School Lunch Programs. What happens when school lets out?(Read more from KETK NBC56)

Thousands braved threatening weather for Komen run

5/13/2012

Neither the gray skies nor the potential inclement weather could dampen the spirits of the approximately 4,700 people who turned out Saturday for the 14th Annual Komen Tyler Race for the Cure® in Tyler's Azalea District.Some ran, some walked and some observed, but all showed support for the Komen Foundation in its quest to raise awareness of breast cancer and to eradicate the dreaded disease.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Lujan makes new stage of her life about giving

5/6/2012

Lisa Lujan has begun a new phase in her life -- philanthropy.

From banker to mother and business owner, she said volunteering for the past several years has taught her a lot about the needs in the community and has opened her eyes.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Stamp Out Hunger provides chance for all to do good

5/6/2012

In this land of plenty, it is startling to think how many Americans go to bed either hungry or worrying about where their next meal will come from.

“Stamp Out Hunger,” a partnership between the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) and the Feeding America Network of food banks, will mark 20 years on May 12 with this year’s initiative.

“‘Stamp Out Hunger’ is one of the easiest ways to help fight hunger in our community without even leaving your home,” said Dennis Cullinane, executive director of the East Texas Food Bank, in a written release.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Hunger prevalent across Texas counties

5/3/2012

The Texas Food Bank Network (TFBN) today released local results from “Map the Meal Gap,” a national study by Feeding America, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity, estimating the rate of food insecurity in every Texas county and congressional district. Statewide, 18.5%, or 4.7 Million Texans experienced food insecurity in 2010. Families are considered food insecure if they struggle to afford enough food for an adequate diet.(Read more from Longview-News Journal)

Boys & Girls Club of Rusk County gearing up for summer

4/29/2012

With just about five weeks left in the school year, plans are heating up for the Rusk County’s Boys & Girls Club summer activities.

Poverty in Texas

4/24/2012

East Texas food banks are seeing a rise in clients. The latest U.S. Census figures show the poverty rate is greater in East Texas than the rest of the state. Marion County has one of the highest rates, with nearly a fourth of its residents living in poverty.

Officials say many of those they serve do have jobs but, still need help buying groceries. An income of $24,000 a year for a family of four is considered at the poverty line. The median household income in Marion County is $29,000.(Read more from KTBS 3)

East Texas poverty rates above state average

4/24/2012

It is four minutes til closing time at Longview Community Ministries Monday and there is a line outside the door to the food pantry; each person waiting his turn to get a box of food basics.

Cody Rockey came to the nonprofit agency for the first time — he is representative of the 20 percent of the county’s population that federal officials say live in poverty.(Read more from Longview News-Journal)

District partners with food bank to offer free summer lunches

4/18/2012

Hawkins ISD is partnering with the East Texas Food Bank and area churches to provide free lunches for children in the summer.

Children ages two to 18 will be able to participate-there are no restrictions or income levels required. The only restriction is students may not pick up the lunches and take them to other locations. They must eat them where they are served.

A Better East Texas: Finding your place to help others

4/17/2012

"Hi, I'm Greg Strnadel with Wells Fargo Advisors. I would like to talk with you about how businesses, and business people, can make a better East Texas."

"At Wells Fargo Advisors, we have a corporate philosophy of giving back to our local communities by supporting worthwhile causes. In East Texas, we at Wells Fargo Advisors give of our financial resources -- and our time -- to such worthy causes as the Boys & Girls Club, Cystic Fibrosis and East Texas Food Bank. These organizations, and their dedicated volunteers, are helping so many people and benefiting our community."(Read more from KLTV 7)

Smithfield makes a 30,000-pound donation

4/11/2012

More people have been going hungry in East Texas in the past few years and are seeking donations from food banks as a result. In fact, the number of people going to the East Texas Food Bank for help has increased by 90 percent between 2005 and 2010, Dennis Cullinane, executive director said Tuesday as he stood outside the Brookshire Grocery Company store on Rice Road in Tyler.

But the news was good on this day for the hungry families of East Texas, Cullinane said. The East Texas Food Bank received a 30,000-pound protein donation from Smithfield Packing, including ham, sausage, lunch meat and bacon. The amount will provide 120,000 servings of protein.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

More than 21,000 eggs donated

3/21/2012

Dennis Cullinane, executive director of the East Texas Food Bank, displays eggs from the more than 21,600 egg donation from Feather Crest Farms. This is the fifth year of the partnership between United Egg Producers and Feeding America's network of food banks.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Rotary Club readying big, tasty fundraiser

3/18/2012

The Rotary Club of Tyler is preparing for its biggest fundraiser of the year: the annual Chili Cook-Off. "It's a good chance for the community to give back and have some fun," said D. M. Edwards, president of the Rotary Club of Tyler Foundation.

Last year, the event raised more that $20,000 for the Rotary Club Foundation. Funds were donated to the Literacy Council, Salvation Army, Red Cross, PATH, East Texas Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, the American Cancer Society, Discovery Science Place and others. (Read more from Tyler Paper)

Resource Center feeds those in need - and more

3/18/2012

Harold Pettit wears many hats as the "do-all guy" for First Resource Center, a benevolent mission spearheaded by a unique partnership: the First Baptist Church of Palestine and The Salvation Army in Anderson County. They are aided by many other churches in the community, governmental entities and some businesses.

As Helping Hands volunteers stocked 3,529 pounds of food delivered from the East Texas Food Bank Thursday, several were still working on the details for the local food pantry's second fundraiser.

Last September, as dwindling donations and increasing food prices hit hard, the charity raised $17,839 by racing hundreds of sponsored rubber ducks down the drainage ditch at City Park.(Read more from Kilgore News Herald)

FRESH celebrates one year with deals, prizes

3/7/2012

FRESH by Brookshire's is celebrating their first birthday with a weeklong party filled with deals and prizes with the customer in mind. The festivities start today and run through March 13.Purchase a bag of canned goods in support of the East Texas Food Bank or make a monetary donation to the Food Bank at FRESH checkout stands.(Read more from Tyler Morning-Telegraph)

Feeding hungry seniors

3/1/2012

A new program in East Texas is fighting senior hunger. The East Texas Food Bank is identifying communities where senior citizens have little or no access to food assistance, and bringing the food to them.

In East Texas, one in seven seniors are at risk of hunger, which means some are forced to chose between paying their utilities, buying medications or purchasing food. That's why the food bank launched the Senior Box Program.(Read more from KTBS 3)

Builders Association presents Home Products Show

2/26/2012

Jon Slater’s eyes are alight. He’s like a child in a toy store, but the “toys” on display inside Harvey Convention Center Saturday afternoon at the 32nd Annual Tyler Area Builders Association Home Products Show are mostly for grown-ups considering new home construction or improving what they have.Food donations are being collected for the East Texas Food Bank.(Read more from Tyler Morning-Telegraph)

City of Tyler wins second place in statewide Mayors Challenge

2/22/2012

Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples today named the city of Tyler and Mayor Barbara Bass second-place winners of a 2011 Mayors Challenge award for promoting child nutrition and making healthy food available to more Texas children through the Texas Department of Agriculture's Summer Nutrition Programs.In recognition of Tyler's second-place award, Mayor Bass received a check for $1,000 provided by H-E-B in support of the Mayors Challenge. Winning mayors donate the funds to a charity of their choice. Mayor Bass will donate the award money to the East Texas Food Bank. (Read more from KYTX CBS 19)

Home Products Show begins Friday

2/19/2012

The Tyler Area Builders Association plans to show consumers plenty of ways to show a little love to their homes at this year's Home Products Show. The 32nd annual event is set for 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Harvey Convention Center, 2000 W. Front St.

Food donations will be collected for the East Texas Food Bank and door prizes will be given away every 30 minutes.

New program provides healthy meal for seniors

2/17/2012

It's called the Senior Box Program and its goal is to provide a free box of nutritious food to low income seniors who may have little or no access to food assistance.

The East Texas Food Bank was filled with volunteers packing up boxes of food for about 100 seniors in Quitman. The boxes contain food items that are nutritious and easy to prepare.(Read more from KYTX CBS19)

Valentine's Day doughnut gift sparks more 10 in 10 competition

2/15/2012

Now you see it, now you don't. A wayward participant in the "10 in 10 Challenge" seems to be back on track with his weight loss efforts, supporters said Tuesday.

Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher Nelson Clyde shed all the fun he had during Super Bowl weekend, just in time for the half-way point in the competition -- losing about four pounds for a total of 14 pounds in five weeks.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Event to benefit Backpack 4 Kids program

2/9/2012

Making sure children in need go home with a backpack full of food every weekend is the goal of the Anderson County Backpack 4 Kids program.The local group, which started out helping feed 25 children a week three years ago, now provides backpacks for 100 children from Palestine, Westwood, Elkhart, Neches and Frankston schools every week.(Read more from Palestine Herald-Press)

Titus County Cares celebrates 'cool' donation

2/4/2012

Every gift to Titus County Cares is welcomed as a blessing; but one received just before Christmas is, without doubt, very cool. Literally.A seven-foot walk-in cooler is a gift from Teresa Potter, longtime owner of Sharon's Florist in Mt. Pleasant.(Read more from Dail Tribune)

"10 in 10 Challenge" gets boost from elementary school students

2/2/2012

A public campaign about private weight loss challenges seemed to hit a feverish pitch Tuesday as some "10 in 10 Challenge" participants gatherd for a health lesson at Tyler's Andy Wood Elementary.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

The East Texas Food Bank is traveling to smaller Harrison County communities to provide meals for those 60 years or older who need additional food assistance.On Tuesday, representatives from the East Texas Food Bank were stationed at Waskom First United Methodist Church to sign up senior citizens for the senior box program.(Read more from the Marshall News Messenger)

Ramey and Dixie Elementary Schools are collecting cans of soup to donate to the East Texas Food Bank through Friday, February 3rd. Douglas Elementary is also participating by collecting canned food that will be donated to PATH this week.

Tyler Junior League sets Role Model Luncheon

1/23/2012

The Junior League of Tyler has scheduled its Role Model Luncheon to give the community the opportunity to see representatives from nonprofit organizations supported by the League, said Leigh Ann Bugg, member.The luncheon is set for 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 10 at Harvey Convention Center, 2000 W. Front St.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Participants weigh in for city manager's challenge

1/19/2012

Efforts to encourage healthy living and to save or improve lives merged Wednesday as participants of City Manager Mark McDaniel’s 10 in 10 Challenge weighed in at East Texas Food Bank.

The bank, along with Carter BloodCare, have an ongoing Fill the Banks campaign to ask East Texans to provide food and blood during a critical time of the year. Some of the 10 in 10 challengers donated blood and/or food to the Fill the Banks cause following the weigh-in.(Read more from Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Feeding America has announced that ConAgra Food Foundation funded the Map the Meal Gap: Child Food Insecurity 2011 report that will help the Foundation target programs that assist children and families at risk of hunger. According to Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap: Child Food Insecurity 2011 report, the group noted: -Child food insecurity in Texas is 28.2 percent, compared with a national average of 23.2 percent.

The first weigh-in for the City Manager's "10 in 10 Fit City Challenge," will be held at the East Texas Food Bank on Jan. 18 at 10:30 a.m. The Food Bank is located at 3201 Robertson Road. All subsequent weigh-ins will be held on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. at various locations throughout the City.(Read more from KYTX CBS19)

East Texas Food Bank starts seniors program

1/7/2012

In East Texas, one in seven seniors citizens are at risk for hunger, many of them not knowing where their next meal is coming from, according to a study conducted by the East Texas Food Bank.In order to supply those over 60 who cannot afford a warm meal, the East Texas Food Bank is signing up senior citizens for a new Senior Box Program.(Read more from the Marshall News Messenger)

'Shine Your Light' blazed Tyler's heart

1/7/2012

This year's Shine Your Light campaign reflects well on all of East Texas.

The third annual "Fill the Banks" campaign, a partnership between Carter BloodCare and the East Texas Food Bank, kicked off Friday."This is one of the most important events in Smith County," said state Rep. Leo Berman, R-Tyler. "My colleagues in Austin are unbelieving when I tell them about our East Texas nonprofits."(Read more from the Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Fill The Banks kicks off

1/6/2012

Play time with her twins almost didn't happen for Amanda Davis of Van."The doctor did tell my husband that they almost lost me," she said. While she was delivering her now 15 month olds babies something went wrong."I was rushed into emergency surgery for a C-section and during that time what you would consider to be a normal C-section pregnancy I started hemorrhaging," she said. "I had to receive 6 units of blood."(Read more from KYTX CBS19)

Help Fill The Banks

1/6/2012

East Texans are asked to step up and help Fill the Banks, both the East Texas Food Bank and Carter BloodCare, by giving blood and food. The needs are greater than ever before. Across the nation and in our own community, the East Texas Food Bank and Carter BloodCare needs are near record levels. So to help those in need, we are asking for East Texans tohelp. During the month of January,join Representative Leo Berman, The City of Tyler and Smith County to help Fill the Banks.

Shine Your Light 'A Triumph": More than $225,000 raised

1/4/2012

Final counts confirm the Shine Your Light campign surpassed its goal by more than $25,000 by Tuesday afternoon, and broke the all-time record since the campaign started in 2008.(Read more from the Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Shine Your Light surpasses goal

1/1/2012

The Shine Your Light campaign this year has been bigger and better than ever, organizers say.

“We’re so excited,” Mayor Barbara Bass said. “We’ve had a stretch goal of $200,000 and have exceeded that because of the community. This is going to be such a blessing to the wonderful organizations who benefit. This is over the top and just proves what a generous community this is.”(Read more from the Tyler Morning Telegraph)